Rafael Devers' Career-High Performance in Red Sox Victory Over Orioles
The Boston Red Sox experienced a mix of misfortune and triumph in their recent game against the Baltimore Orioles. Third baseman Alex Bregman exited Game 1 of a doubleheader early due to right quad tightness. Bregman, who is having a career year with 11 home runs, a .297 batting average, and a .935 OPS, signaled for the trainer after hitting a single in the fifth inning. Abraham Toro replaced him for the remainder of the game. The severity of Bregman's injury remains uncertain, with manager Alex Cora stating, "we'll see tomorrow" regarding his condition.
Bregman's injury could potentially impact Rafael Devers, who was moved to designated hitter (DH) after Bregman's arrival. Devers might return to third base if Bregman is sidelined for an extended period. Additionally, Bregman's potential free agency opt-out could be affected by a significant injury.
Despite Bregman's departure, the Red Sox defeated the Orioles 19-5, highlighted by a 13-run eighth inning. Rafael Devers had a standout performance, achieving a career-high eight RBIs with a three-run homer in the sixth inning and a grand slam in the eighth. Devers' grand slam was his seventh career slam and his second in six days. He also leads the major leagues with 47 RBIs. Rob Refsnyder contributed with four RBIs, including a three-run homer, and Jarren Duran added three RBIs.
The Red Sox trailed 2-1 entering the sixth inning but rallied with RBIs from Ceddanne Rafaela and Jarren Duran, followed by Devers' home run. The team scored its most runs since August 11, 2021, finishing with 20 hits. Garrett Whitlock pitched two scoreless innings, allowing just one hit.
The Orioles have struggled, losing nine of their last 10 games and 15 of their last 18, bringing their record to 16-33. Their manager, Brandon Hyde, was recently fired and replaced on an interim basis by Tony Mansolino.
The second game of the scheduled day-night doubleheader was postponed due to rain and rescheduled as part of a split doubleheader on Saturday, May 24.